Costco has issued a warning to California customers who purchased desert willow plants between June 24 and July 3, advising them to isolate suspect plants and contact county agricultural officials to prevent the spread of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, an invasive insect that poses a significant threat to California's $73-billion wine industry.

The insect, which feeds on plant fluids and spreads Pierce’s disease, has previously been linked to infestations in Costco-sold grapevines, prompting a major response to contain its impact.

Customers are instructed to keep the plants in their original pots, avoid disposing of them in trash or compost, and contact local agricultural authorities for guidance.

The same pest was found in grapevines sold at Northern California Costco warehouses earlier this year, leading to efforts to destroy affected plants and conduct public outreach.

The infestation highlights the broader risk to California's agriculture, as the insect can damage not only grapevines but also citrus trees and other crops.

State officials emphasize the importance of early detection and rapid response to prevent further spread, with customers urged to follow protocols to protect the environment and economy.

The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of managing invasive species in agricultural sectors, particularly in regions with significant economic reliance on crops like grapes.